The Unassuming Princess Trope
With a multitude of new anime shows coming out every season, it's easy to spot trends in Eastern culture and observe how they differ from Western tropes . One trend that has been popular in anime for many years is the unassuming hero or heroine. This is a character who came from a life of emotional abuse, and is unexpectedly thrust into a supportive environment that they don't think they are worthy of. This is one of my favorite tropes because it often includes sweet and supportive romantic leads that blend well with the classic "Cinderella" story. It also adds more meaning to the glitz and glamour of royal life. The latest example of this trope is Betrothed to My Sister's Ex , which premiered as part of the Summer 2025 anime season. Betrothed to My Sister's Ex is the story of a mistreated noblewoman named Marie who was brushed aside by her parents in favor of her sister, Anastasia. When Anastasia dies in a freak accident, Marie is sent to marry Anastasia...